Congressman Souder wants to decrease drug abuse but encourages it by blocking peoples' access to education. Federal studies show that these efforts do not work. They're hurting our economy and society.
Congress has no rational basis to attach financial aid to drug enforcement.
Being affected by this law is not something people are looking to advertise.
The law was intended to reduce drug use, but it causes more by kicking students out of school, which is irrational.
We want the drug conviction question taken off the financial aid application.
We think allowing hard-working and determined students to get a degree and enter the work force will decrease drug use among college students.
Kicking students out will only increase drug abuse, which is the exact opposite intention of the law.
Students who cannot afford college tuition on their own probably can't afford private drug programs.
Before, members of congress were easily able to brush aside the numbers because they weren't available. Now that they have the numbers, they can see how their own constituents are affected. They will have to change the law or face angry voters in the fall.
We basically say the law is unconstitutional because it punishes students twice for the same crime. Taking away access to education is not only illogical, but it is illegal.
